The Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State is in mourning following the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The renowned sociologist and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family died on Friday, aged 96.
She was the wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the royal family was mourning an exceptional woman whose life was marked by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and commitment to humanity.
The statement described the late Professor Okonjo as an internationally recognised sociologist who distinguished herself through her academic achievements, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
“She was a woman of exceptional intellect, yet possessed a rare gentleness of spirit, humility and grace that endeared her to everyone privileged to know her,” the statement said.
It added that her achievements transcended Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her international recognition and respect within academic and intellectual circles.
The statement described her as an embodiment of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Prof. Okonjo was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, as well as a pillar of the royal family.
The statement added that her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength, and exemplary character would remain an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
It said the deceased left a lasting legacy of scholarship, service, family values, and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.
The royal family expressed confidence in its Christian faith, saying it drew comfort from the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
The family also extended its condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and to the deceased’s children, including Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo, as well as their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo family.
The statement urged the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join the royal family in celebrating the late professor’s life and legacy.
It described her as a remarkable daughter of the kingdom whose contributions to scholarship and humanity would endure.
